The Art of Self Transformation
Famous American president and America’s first black president, Barack Obama, while addressing large crowd once said, “change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.” For one’s self this is even more true. You can’t wait for ‘some other person’ or ‘some other time’. If you want to transform your life for the better, then it must start with you, just you – not anyone else, not the environment you live, not those around you. Transformation is about changing your life situation and involves a journey of failures, learning and personal growth. So how do you go about this and where do you start. Unlike setting new goals, transformation involves ‘jumping to the next ship! and embracing change. Here are ten pointers to help you get into the mind sight of transformation and change your life for the better one step at a time.
1. Assess your self and define your purpose
It is important to first know your strengths and weaknesses so as to assess your level of competency in different areas of your life. As part of this, also define your principles; values that you hold dear and how they shape you. Lastly, think about your purpose in life.
2. Set your vision and goals
Figure out where you want to go and where you want to be. Be a dreamer and envision all possibilities while still being realistic. Visioning is a continuous mind exercise where you imagine the possibility that will provide you with the maximum satisfaction in life.
3. Build a transformation plan
Now that you know where you are and where you want to go, ask yourself what do I need to do to get there? The transformation plan, at a minimum, should provide concrete actions, timeline and resources you need to make it happen. Commit yourself to implementing those actions by, for example, putting it in your calendar, telling others about your plan and constantly monitoring your progress.
4. Just start doing it
This is the tough part. Taking on life changing actions is hard, disruptive and often, if not always, we can be tempted to stick with the status quo as that is what we are used to. But disrupt yourself and get in motion.
5. Focus on potentials rather than limitations
Often we think of limitations – our inabilities rather potentials – our abilities, and even some times we are not fully aware of our potentials. Take the time to understand your capabilities and leverage them to overcome obstacles. Just as ‘love trumps hate’ remember ‘potential trumps limitation’.
6. Find mentors and supporters
Transformation is hard and involves shortcomings that could lead one to doubt their commitment sometimes. Mentors and supporters would be critical at those times. Through networking, build connections and close relationships with individuals that want you to succeed and will not only motivate you but will also challenge you to achieve more.
7. Don’t let the naysayers bring you down
And there are those that would cast doubt at your ambitions and will tell you its impossible. Just ignore them as they will strive to convince you to abandon your goals.
8. Build on your past experiences and achievements
During transformation, past experience can come in handy and can help you accelerate your efforts to reach your end goal. Things you thought you would never use in life can be leveraged to enhance your capabilities and position you for more success.
9. Delay gratitude but still take the time to celebrate success
It is important to celebrate milestones as part of the transformation journey, however, it is essential to keep an eye on the final price. Let the milestone celebrations fuel your efforts to reach the next and then the next one until your achieve your final goals.
10. Give back
Mahatma Gandhi once said, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” Giving back is not only a good way to help others but also increases self-esteem and leads to ‘greater personal empowerment and better health‘ according to numerous studies.
